William was born in Wolverhampton on 16 February 1878 and baptised at St Benedict Biscop in Wombourne on 30 Oct 1878. His parents were George William and Louisa Matilda, and they were living in Heath Town at the time of William’s baptism. In 1889, William started attending Heath Town Church of England School. In 1891 they were living in Evans Building, 14 Paul Street, Wednesfield with William’s siblings George Thomas, Florence Elizabeth and Louisa. He married Sarah Ann Griffiths in Holy Trinity Church, Heath Town on 15 July 1900 and they were living in 18 Gatis Street, Wolverhampton in 1901. William was working as a corn factor’s carter. The couple had two daughters – Florence (born 1902) and Olive (born 1903). By 1911 the family were living at 77 Craddock Street in Wolverhampton, and William was working as a labourer and bricklayer.

On 5 November 1914, he enlisted in the 8th Battalion of the South Staffordshire Regiment. Unfortunately after a shell attack in February 1916, his leg had to be amputated. He eventually died of his injuries on 26 April 1916. He is buried in Bilston Cemetery